A: Human growth hormone (HGH) is synthesized and secreted by the pituitary gland. HGH is known to act on many aspects of cellular metabolism and is also necessary for skeletal growth. The major role of HGH in body growth is to stimulate the liver and other tissues to secrete insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). IGF-1 stimulates production of cartilage cells, resulting in bone growth, and also plays a key role in muscle and organ growth.

Q: What are the side effects of HGH abuse?

A: Commonly reported side effects are: diabetes in prone individuals; worsening of cardiovascular diseases; muscle, joint and bone pain; hypertension and cardiac deficiency; abnormal growth of organs; accelerated osteoarthritis. Because of the role HGH plays in stimulating IGF-1 secretion, excessive use of HGH may also lead to metabolic dysfunction.

Q: Why has there been only limited implementation of the current HGH test?

A: The current test is based on the blood matrix and was initially implemented on a limited scale to a number of the WADA-accredited anti-doping laboratories worldwide. The antibodies used for the current tests were initially produced in a research environment. The production of antibodies in a research environment is usually small. Efforts made by WADA for widespread production of the antibodies needed for HGH detection were slowed following the takeover of the company with which WADA had an agreement for the development of these antibodies, and the decision made by the company’s new management in 2006 to stop its cooperation with WADA. WADA subsequently found a new partner for the large-scale production and distribution of antibodies kits. The kits have now been validated, and mass production of the kits has started.

Q: Is a urine test for HGH likely to be developed?

A: According to the majority of international doping experts, blood is the most suitable matrix for the detection of HGH. HGH in urine is found in extremely small quantities (less than 1 percent than that found in blood). WADA is collaborating with research teams to explore the development of urine-based detection methods for HGH.

Four assistant basketball coaches at Division I schools and a top Adidas executive were among 10 people charged Tuesday with crimes including bribery and fraud as part of a wide-ranging federal investigation into corruption in college basketball.

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